The pre-hospital emergency care profession is a dynamic and unique profession. The tasks related to this profession are fast paced and require you to think on your feet real time. This profession is in many ways both challenging and rewarding.

To begin your career in this profession there are currently three avenues to follow:

The first stage is completing a Basic Ambulance Assistant (BAA) course. This programme runs over 5 weeks and incorporates basic assessment techniques as well as basic life saving skills and maneuvers. After successfully completing the course, you may register with the HPCSA and gain employment as a BAA.

The next stage is the Ambulance Emergency Assistant course (AEA). This course is an intermediate level qualification and will qualify you to work independently with a higher level of Emergency Care knowledge. This course is presented over 3 months on a full time basis. Applicants to this course must have documented proof of at least 1000 hours practical experience as a registered BAA. After successful completing this course, you may register with the HPCSA and practice as an AEA.

The final stage is to complete the Critical Care Assistant (CCA) programme. This is a one year full time programme and you qualify as an Advanced Life Support (ALS) Paramedic. The suitable AEA needs to show proof of at least 1000 hours worked as an AEA and successfully complete the CCA entrance examination. After successfully completing this programme, you may register as a CCA with the HPCSA and gain employment as an ALS Paramedic level.

Option 2

Another option is to complete a 4 year Bachelor of Technology Degree at one of South Africa's tertiary institutions that offer this degree.

Upon successful completion of this Degree you will be qualified as an Advanced Life Support (ALS) Paramedic. Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), you will be able to practice and gain employment as an ALS Paramedic.

Option 3

The Emergency Care Technician (ECT) programme was introduced by Government in 2007 and will lay the foundation for the future of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) training in South Africa. The ECT programme is done over two years, full time. Students will graduate with a National Certificate in Emergency Medical Care (EMC) at NQF level 5.

The successful candidates will operate at an Advanced Life Support (ALS) level with a few restrictions. This Certificate will also allow for a direct entry into the Bachelors Degree.

Should you be interested in a career as a paramedic you need to be aware of the following requirements:

Grade 12 Qualification

Above average communication and life skills

Able to perform effectively under adverse circumstances

Exhibit an inherent passion for caring and helping people

A preference for the medical fraternity will be an advantage

No limitations in operating a motor vehicle will also be an advantage.